The 1973 Norton Commando 850 from United Kingdom was powered by a 828cc OHV twin producing 56hp at 5900rpm. Weighing 195.0kg (430 lbs) and with a seat height of 800mm, it was aimed at standard riders.
The 1988 BMW R100GS, hailing from Germany, by contrast offered 980cc of OHV flat-twin power, delivering 60hp at 6500rpm. Tipping the scales at 195.0kg (430 lbs) with a top speed of 175km/h (109 mph), it offered a distinct riding experience. 1970s bikes from the Japanese superbike revolution are increasingly sought after. Clean, original examples have seen significant value appreciation.
Specifications Comparison
| 1973 Norton Commando 850 | 1988 BMW R100GS | |
|---|---|---|
| Displacement | 828 cc | 980 cc |
| Power | 56 hp | 60 hp |
| Torque | 62.0 Nm | 56.0 Nm |
| Cylinders | 2 | 2 |
| Top Speed | 190 km/h | 175 km/h |
| Quarter Mile | — | — |
| Dry Weight | 195.0 kg | 195.0 kg |
| Wet Weight | 210.0 kg | 213.0 kg |
| Seat Height | 800 mm | 860 mm |
| Wheelbase | 1440 mm | 1504 mm |
| Fuel Capacity | 14.0 L | 26.0 L |
| Gears | 4 -speed | 5 -speed |
The Verdict
These two machines serve fundamentally different purposes. The 1973 Norton Commando 850 is built for all-round versatility and everyday riding, while the 1988 BMW R100GS targets off-road capability and adventure riding. On paper, the 1988 BMW R100GS's 60hp trumps the 1973 Norton Commando 850's 56hp, but raw numbers don't tell the whole story in such different segments. Choose the 1973 Norton Commando 850 if you value all-round versatility and everyday riding; pick the 1988 BMW R100GS for off-road capability and adventure riding.
About the 1973 Norton Commando 850
The 1973 1973 Norton Commando 850 is a 828cc twin-cylinder standard motorcycle that became one of Norton's most memorable motorcycles of the 1970s.
Full 1973 Norton Commando 850 Profile →About the 1988 BMW R100GS
A dual-sport from 1988, the 1988 BMW R100GS delivers 60hp from its 980cc OHV flat-twin engine.
Full 1988 BMW R100GS Profile →